Review Summary: State Champs prove why they are the kings of modern pop-punk.
After nearly four years, State Champs are back with their new record, "Kings of the New Age." I think each of State Champs’ first three records are solid efforts and some of the best pop punk albums released in the last decade. "The Finer Things" is a scene staple to this day, while "Around the World and Back," my personal favorite Champs record, had the band exploring the popper side of pop-punk. "Living Proof" is essentially ATWAB part two, which is not necessarily a bad thing. "Kings of the New Age" harnesses the best aspects of each of the first three records.
"Kings of the New Age" is produced by Drew Fulk, who has produced some of my favorite records over the past several years. The first taste of the record came from the single "Just Sound" in August that encompasses a soaring chorus and a reflective bridge in classic Champs fashion. We then received the singles "Outta My Head," "Eventually," and "Everybody But You," the ladder of which is one of the best songs the group has ever released and my personal favorite on the album.
As for the deep cuts, "Here to Stay" is an energetic opener while "Fake It" is a rather basic but fun Living Proof-esque track. "Act Like That" is a great time that features pop-country artist Mitchell Tenpenny, who I had the opportunity to see live in 2019 before he reached the stardom he has today. "Where Were You" and "Sundress" are also solid entries, with the ladder featuring what sounds like both vocalists from easycore icons Four Year Strong. "Sundress" is a solid track overall, but I wish the FYS feature was longer and more prominent on the track. The only song I am not digging is "Half Empty." I liked what they tried to do here and Derek’s vocals sound fantastic, but the track does not do much for me. The closing track, "Some Minds Never Change," is another top favorite of mine. This song demonstrates how far the band has come as musicians by featuring some excellent songwriting and S-tier guitar work. I cannot wait to hear this track live.
Overall, "Kings of the New Age" is a solid entry into State Champs’ discography. With the new age of pop-punk in the midst of a boom, it would be nice to see this record receive some mainstream attention, as the quality of this record is miles above recent releases in the genre.
Favorite Tracks:
Everybody But You
Some Minds Don’t Change
Just Sound
Least Favorite:
Half Empty
7.8/10
